Lacson Dismisses Minority Report on Flood Control Probe, Citing Senate Rules
Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Panfilo Lacson firmly rejected a so-called "minority report" concerning alleged flood control anomalies on Wednesday, emphasizing that it holds no official standing under Senate regulations. Lacson asserted that such a document undermines the authority of the committee and the entire Senate, stating that only reports approved by the majority can be formally reported out and discussed in plenary sessions.
Committee Authority and Respect in Senate Proceedings
In a recent interview, Lacson explained his position, highlighting that respect must be mutual in legislative processes. He questioned how he, as chairman, could treat a document with respect when it symbolizes disrespect toward the Blue Ribbon Committee and the Senate as a whole. Lacson advised that concerns from minority members should be properly raised through amendments during the deliberation of the main report on the Senate floor, ensuring adherence to procedural norms.
Additionally, Lacson noted that evidence uncovered during the committee's hearings has already contributed to cases currently pending before the courts, underscoring the investigative impact of their work.
Hontiveros Emphasizes Probe's Complementary Role with DOJ and Ombudsman
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros provided insights into the committee's role, clarifying that its investigation complements rather than duplicates ongoing efforts by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Ombudsman. In a Kapihan sa Senado interview, Hontiveros affirmed that the Blue Ribbon Committee is definitely helpful, as legislative inquiries can proceed alongside prosecutorial and judicial processes without conflict.
She emphasized that the committee's findings and recommendations will remain valuable to the executive branch in addressing systemic weaknesses and guiding necessary reforms, thereby enhancing governance and accountability in flood control projects.
